Plans have been made for a new nine-mile cycle route.

Wealden District Council is proposing a new off-road surfaced pathway between Uckfield and Lewes.

It would create an alternative cycling route to the A26 and would join Isfield and Barcombe directly.

It could be used by commuters and people on leisurely journeys by linking tourist destinations including the Lavender Line and Barcombe Mills.

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The new route would also be where part of the Uckfield to Lewes railway line used to be. The line closed in 1969.

Wealden district councillor Ian Tysh, lead councillor for planning and environment, said: "We are in the very early stages of this exciting project.

"If the proposed scheme becomes viable it will make a contribution towards achieving climate change goals for the council’s net-zero strategy and the wider Wealden environment.

"We are always looking to improve residents’ lives and improve overall wellbeing and mental health."

Councillor Emily O’Brien of Lewes District Council said: "There are many potential benefits for local people from cycleways so I’m delighted that this is being fully assessed.

"However, it is just one first step to see how a new cycleway can be designed without hindering any future opening of the rail link."